Quinn announced his pick for running mate today by email. The Chicago Democrat says he has known Vallas for thirty years, and says he'll fight for "education, reform, and opportunities for working people."

Vallas ran Chicago Public Schools from 1995 to 2001. He also ran for governor in 2002, losing to Rod Blagojevich in the Democratic primary.

Vallas is currently superintendent of schools in Bridgeport, CT, where he's been fighting in court to keep his job. He has also served as school superintendent in Philadelphia and New Orleans.